Apple wants developers to see how to make immersive experiences in AR

By Amber Neely

A long-running page on the Apple Developer site has been expanded, and is now highlighting how developers can use Quick Look to display 3D models on the iPhone, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro.

A 'For All Mankind' cosmonaut viewed with Quick Look

The page

includes a plethora of 3D models to try out. Some models include a lunar rover from For All Mankind, a stack of pancakes, and a vintage TV set. Apple says that many of the models were made with Object Capture.

According to Apple, Quick Look supports built-in behaviors and animations, too. This means developers can create interactive, immersive experiences with animation and custom audio.

Expansion example of the 'For All Mankind' Cosmonaut example

Apple highlights an AR model of a wooden deity figure (zem) from the Caribbean created by the Metropolitan Museum of Art. If you view the model with Quick Look, a custom audio track describing the piece plays.

Close up of 'zem'

In addition to custom audio tracks, Quick Look allows developers to add Apple Pay integration or custom actions to 3D models.

The most obvious use would be to encourage customers to try out a product in AR -- such as a piece of furniture -- and immediately allow them to purchase it via an Apple Pay banner.

Apple's digital clock example

In this case, Apple has provided the example of an old digital clock.

The page is viewable inside Apple Vision Pro, and on an iPhone. ARDZ files are downloadable on the Mac.